The IAGA, noting that a proper understanding of many aspects of the geomagnetic field requires continuous, high-accuracy, high-resolution long-term data of the type provided by the MAGSAT satellite of 1979/1980, supported by a well-distributed and modern geomagnetic observatory network, recommends that all the relevant organisations, agencies and member countries provide all possible support to ensure that (1) a continuous sequence of MAGSAT-quality vector-magnetic satellites, such as the proposed UNIMAG, OERSTED, GAMES and DMSP/POGS satellite series, is operated for at least the next solar cycle (22 years), and (2) the current geomagnetic observatory network be maintained, and upgraded where necessary, and its coverage be extended into ocean areas.